Volvo Trucks is putting electric trucks at the centre of its presence at IAA 2026. On the press day, the Swedish manufacturer announced two new families, which will be introduced progressively to markets from 2026. The first is the extended-range FH Aero Electric, designed for long-haul and intercity transport, while the second comprises the new generation of FH, FM and FMX Electric models, aimed at road construction, regional distribution, urban logistics, public services and waste collection.
The extended-range FH Aero Electric introduces a new drivetrain architecture, the e-axle, which integrates two electric motors and a six-speed gearbox directly into the rear axle. The solution frees up chassis space for greater battery capacity, allowing eight batteries to be fitted on board and delivering maximum power of up to 460 kW. The vehicle is approved for a gross combination weight of up to 48 tonnes, with a payload of up to 28 tonnes. Customers can vary the battery configuration to balance range and payload capacity. For charging, the truck supports the Megawatt Charging System standard, which, with power of up to 700 kW, can take the battery from 20% to 80% charge in about 50 minutes. Charging via the 350 kW Combined Charging System standard is also available, taking about 85 minutes for the same charging interval. Equipment includes an electric power take-off dedicated to refrigeration units, eliminating the need for a separate diesel generator.
The new generation of FH, FM and FMX Electric models, meanwhile, uses a dual-motor drivetrain combined with a dedicated eight-speed gearbox designed to maximise available torque. Maximum power rises to 540 kW, enabling the vehicles to handle heavier loads and topographically demanding routes. The trucks can be equipped with dual drive axles and low-ratio gearing for maximum operational flexibility. Gross combination weight can reach 65 tonnes, with a payload of up to 23.8 tonnes in the 4x2 tractor configuration. Volvo Trucks states a range of 470 kilometres, with charging via the 350 kW CCS standard taking the battery from 20% to 80% in about 65 minutes. For body applications, Volvo offers several power take-off solutions, with single- or dual-motor outputs to operate cranes, hook-lift systems or tipping bodies, while allowing the vehicle and body equipment to operate simultaneously.
Across all the new models, both the extended-range FH Aero Electric and the FH, FM and FMX Electric range, the gearbox has been improved for the electric drivetrain and paired with the dual-motor configuration: eight speeds on the FH, FM and FMX Electric models and six speeds on the extended-range FH Aero Electric. According to Volvo, this solution provides smoother gear changes and reduces noise and vibration during the working shift.
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